How to Make Coffee with a French Press

If you're lookin' to brew a cup of joe that's as bold and unfiltered as the open range, then let me tip my hat to the French press—a trusty method that delivers a robust, full-bodied brew, much like the cowboy coffee of yore.

What Is French Press Coffee?
The French press, also known as a cafetière (if you're real fancy) or press pot, is a simple brewing device that lets coffee grounds steep directly in hot water, extracting rich flavors and natural oils. Unlike drip coffee makers that use paper filters, the French press uses a metal mesh plunger to separate the grounds from the liquid, resulting in a hearty, rustic cup that's perfect for those who appreciate the unrefined beauty of cowboy coffee.

Gear Up - What You'll Need
Before we start brewin', gather your supplies:

• French press: A standard 8-cup (1-liter) press works well.
• Fresh coffee beans: Preferably a bold, medium to dark roast like our Quarter Horse Cowboy Blend.
• Grinder: A burr grinder is ideal for consistent coarse grounds.
• Kettle: To boil water.
• Wooden spoon: For stirring.
• Timer: To keep track of brewing time.

Step-by-Step Guide to Brewing French Press Coffee

1. Measure and Grind: Use a ratio of 1:15 coffee to water. For an 8-cup press, that's about 56 grams (8 tablespoons) of coffee to 840 grams (30 ounces) of water. Grind the beans to a coarse consistency, similar to sea salt.
   
2. Preheat the Press: Pour hot water into the empty French press to warm it up, then discard the water. This helps maintain the temperature during brewing.
3. Add Coffee Grounds: Place the coarsely ground coffee into the preheated French press.
4. Add Hot Water: Heat water to about 200°F (just off the boil). Pour it over the coffee grounds, saturating them evenly. Fill the press halfway, stir gently to ensure all grounds are wet, then add the remaining water.
5. Steep: Place the lid on the press with the plunger pulled up. Let the coffee steep for 4 minutes. This allows for optimal extraction of flavors.
6. Plunge: After 4 minutes, slowly press the plunger down, applying steady pressure. This separates the grounds from the brewed coffee.
7. Serve Immediately: Pour the coffee into your mug and enjoy. Leaving it in the press can lead to over-extraction and bitterness.

Final Thoughts

Brewing coffee with a French press is a straightforward process that yields a rich, full-bodied cup, reminiscent of the cowboy coffee enjoyed around the campfire. By following these steps, you can bring a touch of the frontier to your morning routine.

So saddle up, and enjoy a brew that's as bold and unfiltered as the open range.